Optical reader having an imager

ABSTRACT

There is described a device having a two dimensional imager. The device having a two dimensional image sensor can be a hand held device. Imaging optics can be provided for focusing light reflected from a target onto the two dimensional imager. An image including imaging data can be obtained utilizing the hand held device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a divisional application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/748,076 filed Mar. 26, 2010, which is acontinuation U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/188,804 filed Aug. 8,2008 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,686,222 on Mar. 30, 2010, which is adivisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/592,636filed Nov. 3, 2006 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,413,127 on Aug. 19,2008, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/764,741 filed on Jan. 26, 2004 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,287,697on Oct. 30, 2007, which is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/904,697 filed Jul. 13, 2001 and issued as U.S. Pat. No.6,722,569 on Apr. 20, 2004. The benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §120of each of the above applications is claimed and each of the aboveapplications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to optical readers, andparticularly to optical readers employing imagers.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Optical indicia readers equipped to read one-dimensional ortwo-dimensional bar code symbols are well known in the art. There are anumber of optical character recognition systems on the market as well.In addition, many financial institutions today employ computer-drivensignature capture systems. Many of these systems employ monochromeimagers because monochrome imagers are well-suited to read graphicalsymbols, such as bar codes, OCR symbols, or signatures.

On the other hand, the ability to provide image capture functionalityalong with indicia reading in one device is very appealing. Currently,optical readers having image capture functionality use monochromeimagers that provide gray scale images. While such devices are useful,gray scale images are less desirable than color images for viewingpurposes. The public has come to expect color imaging. Further,monochrome images are often less distinct and not as informative ascolor images.

Unfortunately, there are problems associated with using color imagingsystems to read graphical symbols. The first problem relates to thedifficulty of distinguishing bi-tonal indicia in a color image. Becausecolor imagers provide more information that bi-tonal indicia readers canuse, color imaging data is often confusing to graphical symbol indiciareaders. One way to solve this problem is to convert the color imagingdata into gray-scale data. However, commercially available methods forconverting color images to gray-scale are too slow for high-volumescanning. Thus, an optical reader employing a color imager with a grayscale converter would be slower and more expensive than an opticalreader using monochrome imager because of the additional processingrequired.

Thus, a need exists for an inexpensive optical reader that is capable ofperforming color photography and evaluating graphical symbols. Thisoptical reader must be capable of automatically determining whether animage includes a graphical symbol or is merely a color photographicimage, and process the acquired color imaging data based on thatdetermination. A need also exists for an optical reader that is able toassociate an acquired color image with any subsequent acquired colorimage.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is described a device having a two dimensional imager. The devicehaving a two dimensional image sensor can be a hand held device. Imagingoptics can be provided for focusing light reflected from a target ontothe two dimensional imager. An image including imaging data can beobtained utilizing the hand held device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIGS. 1A-1D are perspective views of various embodiments of the opticalreader of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the electro-optical assembly of the opticalreader of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is an example of a graphical user interface display in accordancewith the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing the processing flow for an automatic modein accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing the processing flow for a semi-automaticmode in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6A-6C are graphical depictions of the menu symbol used in the barcode processing flows depicted in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing a method for reading a bar code inaccordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing a method for 1D autodiscrimination inaccordance with the method depicted in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing a method for 2D autodiscrimination inaccordance with the method depicted in FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a method for reading text in accordancewith yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing a method for performing OCR inaccordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing a method for associating consecutiveimages taken with the color optical reader of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is an example of image association in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a wireless color optical reader inaccordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing a method for transmitting packetizeddata from a color optical reader to a base station;

FIGS. 16A and 16B are diagrammatic depictions of packet formats inaccordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing a method for performing signatureverification in accordance with yet another embodiment of the presentinvention; and

FIG. 18 is a diagrammatic depiction of color optical reader networkapplications in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention addresses the needs identified above. The presentinvention is directed to an inexpensive optical reader that isconfigured to perform color photography or evaluate graphical symbols.The optical reader of the present invention automatically, or throughmanual selection, determines whether a captured image is a colorphotographic image or, a color image that includes a graphical symbol.Subsequently, the optical reader of the present invention processes theacquired imaging data in accordance with that determination. The opticalreader of the present invention is operative to acquire and associate aplurality of acquired images.

One aspect of the present invention is an optical reader. The opticalreader includes a color imaging assembly for acquiring an image of anobject, the color imaging assembly generating imaging data correspondingto the image. An image analysis circuit is coupled to the color imagingassembly. The image analysis circuit being configured to determine ifthe color imaging data includes at least one graphical symbol. The imageis classified as a graphical symbol, or the image is classified as acolor photograph if the color imaging data does not include at least onegraphical symbol. A processing circuit is coupled to the image analysiscircuit. The processing circuit is operative to process the imaging databased on the determination.

In another aspect, the present invention includes an optical reader forcapturing an image of an object. The optical reader includes a colorimaging assembly for converting the image of the object into colordigital data corresponding to the image.

An automatic mode selection circuit is coupled to the color imagingassembly. The mode selection circuit uses at least a portion of thecolor digital data to select one of a plurality of operational modes ofthe optical reader. The operational modes include at least a graphicalsymbol mode and a color photography mode. A processing circuit iscoupled to the mode selection circuit. The processing circuit isconfigured to process the color digital data based on the selectedoperational mode.

In another aspect, the present invention includes an optical reader forcapturing an image of an object. The optical reader includes a colorimaging assembly for capturing the image as color imaging data. Aclassification circuit is coupled to the color imaging assembly, theclassification circuit being configured to process at least a portion ofthe color imaging data to thereby select one of a plurality ofclassifications, whereby the image is classified as a color photographicimage, or as an image that includes at least one graphical symbol. Anautomatic mode selector is coupled to the classification circuit, theautomatic mode selector being configured to select an optical readermode in accordance with the selected classification. A processor iscoupled to the classification circuit, the processor being programmed toprocess the color imaging data in accordance with the optical readermode selected by the automatic mode selector.

In another aspect, the present invention includes an optical reader forcapturing an image of an object. The optical reader includes a colorimaging assembly for capturing the image as color imaging data. A usermode selector is coupled to the color imaging assembly, the user modeselector being switchable between at least one automatic user mode, or amanual user mode for manually selecting one of a plurality of imagingmodes of the optical reader, whereby the plurality of imaging modesincludes at least one graphical symbol mode and a color photographymode. An automatic imaging mode selector is coupled to the user modeselector and the color imaging assembly, the automatic imaging modeselector being operative to automatically select one of the plurality ofimaging modes when in the automatic user mode. A processing circuit iscoupled to the user mode selector and the automatic mode selector, theprocessing circuit being programmed to process the color imaging databased on the selected one of the plurality of operational modes.

In another aspect, the present invention includes a method for acquiringan image of an object with an optical reader. The method includes:acquiring first color imaging data representing the image; analyzing thecolor imaging data to provide an image classification, whereby the imageis classified as a color photograph, or as including at least onegraphical symbol; and processing the color imaging data in accordancewith the image classification.

In another aspect, the present invention includes a computer readablemedium having computer-executable instructions for performing a methodincluding: acquiring color imaging data; analyzing the color imagingdata to provide an image classification, whereby the image is classifiedas a color photograph, or the image is classified as including at leastone graphical symbol; and processing the color imaging data inaccordance with the image classification.

In another aspect, the present invention includes an optical readerhaving a color imaging assembly for acquiring color imaging data, and agraphical user interface including a display and a selection device. Inthe optical reader, a method for selecting at least one optical readeroperating mode includes: displaying at least one icon on the graphicaluser interface, the at least one icon corresponding to the at least oneoptical reader operating mode; clicking on the at least one icon withthe selection device to thereby select the at least one optical readeroperating mode corresponding to the selected at least one icon; andprocessing the color imaging data based on the selected at least oneicon, whereby the color imaging data is processed as a colorphotographic image, or as an image that includes at least one graphicalsymbol.

In another aspect, the present invention includes an optical readerhaving a color imaging assembly for acquiring color imaging data, and agraphical user interface including a display and a selection device. Inthe optical reader, a method of providing and selecting from a menu onthe display includes: retrieving a set of menu entries for the menu,each of the menu entries representing at least one operational mode ofthe optical reader; displaying the set of menu entries on the display;selecting a menu entry; emitting a menu selection signal indicative of aselected operational mode; and processing the imaging data based on theselected menu entry, whereby the imaging data is processed as a colorphotographic image or as an image that includes at least one graphicalsymbol.

In another aspect, the present invention includes a method for acquiringan image of an object with an optical reader. The method includes:providing a color imaging assembly; converting the image into colorimaging data; classifying the image as either a color photograph, or asa color image that includes at least one graphical symbol; andprocessing the color imaging data in accordance with the step ofclassifying.

In another aspect, the present invention includes a method for acquiringan image of an object with an optical reader. The optical reader has aplurality of imaging modes including at least one graphical symbol mode,and a color photography mode. The method includes: capturing the imageby acquiring color imaging data; analyzing at least a portion of thecolor imaging data to provide an image classification, whereby the imageclassification includes at least one graphical symbol classification anda color photography classification; automatically selecting one of aplurality of image processing modes based on the image classificationprovided in the step of analyzing; and processing the color imaging databased on the selected one of the plurality of image processing modes.

In another aspect, the present invention includes a method for acquiringan image of an object with an optical reader. The optical reader has aplurality of imaging modes including at least one graphical symbol mode,and a color photography mode. The method includes: capturing the imageby acquiring color imaging data; automatically selecting one of theplurality of imaging modes based on an analysis of the color imagingdata; and processing the color imaging data in accordance with aselected one of the plurality of imaging modes.

In another aspect, the present invention includes a system forprocessing at least one image. The system includes at least one networkelement. The system includes an optical reader including a color imagerand a processor. The color imager is configured to capture the at leastone image by generating color imaging data corresponding to the at leastone image. The processor is configured to provide a classification ofthe color imaging data based on whether the color imaging data includesat least one graphical symbol. The processor is programmed to processthe color imaging data in accordance with the classification. A networkis coupled to the color optical reader and the at least one networkelement, whereby processed image data is transmitted between the networkand the at least one network element.

Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth inthe detailed description which follows, and in part will be readilyapparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognizedby practicing the invention as described herein, including the detaileddescription which follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings.

It is to be understood that the description herein is merely exemplaryof the invention, and are intended to provide an overview or frameworkfor understanding the nature and character of the invention as it isclaimed. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a furtherunderstanding of the invention, and are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodimentsof the invention, and together with the description serve to explain theprinciples and operation of the invention.

Reference will now be made in detail to the present exemplaryembodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in theaccompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numberswill be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.An exemplary embodiment of the optical reader of the present inventionis shown in FIG. 1, and is designated generally throughout by referencenumeral 10.

In accordance with the invention, the present invention for an opticalreader includes a color imaging assembly for acquiring color imagingdata. An image analysis circuit determines if the acquired imageincludes at least one graphical symbol. A processing circuit processesthe imaging data based on the determination of whether the imageincludes at least one graphical symbol. The present invention allows auser to read graphical symbols, such as bar codes, text, OCR charactersor signatures using a color imager. The color optical reader of thepresent invention is configured to automatically determine whether acolor image includes a graphical symbol, or is merely a colorphotographic image. The optical reader of the present invention also isoperative to associate one acquired image with at least one subsequentlyacquired image.

As embodied herein, and depicted in FIGS. 1A-1D, perspective views ofthe optical reader in accordance with various embodiments of the presentinvention are disclosed. FIG. 1A shows the underside of hand heldwireless optical reader 10. FIG. 1B shows the top of the optical readerdepicted in FIG. 1A. Optical reader 10 includes housing 100, antenna102, window 104 and trigger 12. Window 104 accommodates illuminationassembly 20 and imaging assembly 30. As shown in FIG. 1B, the top sideof reader 10 includes function keys 14, alphanumeric key pad 16, anddisplay 60. In one embodiment, function keys 14 include an enter key andup and down cursor keys. FIG. 1C is also a hand held wireless opticalreader 10. Reader 10 includes function keys 14, alphanumeric key pad 16,writing stylus 18, display 60, and signature block 62. Stylus 18 isemployed by a user to write his signature in signature block 62. FIG. 1Dshows yet another embodiment of optical reader 10 of the presentinvention. In this embodiment, reader 10 includes a gun-shaped housing100. Display 60 and keypad 16 are disposed on a top portion ofgun-shaped housing 100, whereas trigger 12 is disposed on the undersideof the top portion of housing 100. Housing 100 also includes window 104that accommodates illumination assembly 20 and imaging assembly 30. Wire106 is disposed at the butt-end of housing 100. Wire 106 providesoptical reader 10 with a hard wired communication link for externaldevices such as a host processor or other data collection devices.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 2, a block diagram of theelectro-optical assembly of optical reader 10 of the present inventionis disclosed. Optical reader 10 includes illumination assembly 20 andcolor imaging assembly 30, connected to processor 40. Illuminationassembly 20 includes illumination optics 22 coupled to light source 24.Light source 24 is coupled to ASIC/FPGA 44. ASIC/FPGA 44 is programmedto drive light source 24. Imaging assembly 30 includes imaging optics 32and color imager 34. Imaging optics 32 focuses the illumination lightreflected from target T onto color imager 34. Color imager 34 providescolor imaging data to ASIC/FPGA 44. Color imager 34 performs severalfunctions. Color imager 34 generates analog color image signals using animaging array color filter. The array color filter pattern is aBayer-pattern. The analog color imaging data is converted into a digitalformat using an internal A/D converter which also functions as aquantizer. An 8-bit system provides 256 brightness levels, whereas a12-bit converter provides over 4,000 brightness levels. Digital colorimaging data is transmitted from imager 34 to ASIC/FPGA 44 and processor42.

Optical reader 10 also includes processor 40. In the embodiment depictedin FIG. 2, processor 40 includes microprocessor 42 and ASIC 44. Systembus 52 couples microprocessor 40, RAM 46, EROM 48, I/O circuit 50 anddisplay 60.

Illumination optics 22 may be of any suitable type, but there is shownby way of example a lens system for directing light from light source 24towards target T. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in thepertinent art that modifications and variations can be made toillumination optics 22 of the present invention depending on thecomplexity of the target illumination. For example, illumination optics22 may include one or more lenses, diffusers, wedges, reflectors or acombination of these elements. In one embodiment, illumination optics 22produces an aiming pattern on target T.

Light source 24 may be of any suitable type, but there is shown by wayof example a plurality of white LEDs. It will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the pertinent art that modifications and variationscan be made to light source 24 of the present invention depending on theapplication. For example, illumination assembly 20 may be eliminatedaltogether if it is certain that the ambient light level will be highenough to obtain high quality color images. In another embodiment, redLEDs are employed instead of the white LEDs.

Color imager 34 may be of any suitable type, but there is shown by wayof example, a CMOS color imager having a 640×480 pixel resolution. Itwill be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the pertinent art thatmodifications and variations can be made to color imager 34 of thepresent invention depending on cost and the resolution required byoptical reader 10. In another embodiment, color imager 34 has 800×600pixels. A typical VGA resolution of 640×480 pixels is adequate fordisplaying color images on a LCD or a computer monitor. In one megapixelembodiment, color imager 34 has 1156×864 pixels (almost 1-millionpixels). In yet another embodiment, color imager 34 includes 1536×1024pixels. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that as theresolution of imager 34 increases, so will the cost. In anotherembodiment, color imager 34 is implemented by scanning a linear CCDarray. In other embodiments, color imager 34 is implemented using anarea CCD solid state image sensor.

Processor 40 may be of any suitable type, but there is shown by way ofexample a processor which includes microprocessor 42 and ASIC 44 coupledto system bus 52. In one embodiment, microprocessor 42 and ASIC areprogrammable control devices that receive, process, and output data inaccordance with an embedded program stored in EROM 48. As discussedabove, microprocessor 42 and ASIC 44 are connected to system bus 52,which includes address, data, and control lines.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, microprocessor 42 is anoff-the-shelf VLSI integrated circuit (IC) microprocessor.Microprocessor 42 is tasked with the over-all control of theelectro-optics shown in FIG. 2. Processor 42 controls menu operations,command and data received from I/O circuit 50, data written to display60, and operating system functions. I/O circuit 50 controls theinformation received from keypad 14 and keypad 16. Microprocessor 42 isalso tasked with processing and decoding imaging data stored in RAM 46in accordance with the programming instructions stored in EROM 48. Thus,microprocessor 42 performs bar code decoding, optical characterrecognition, signature verification, and color image processing.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, ASIC 44 is implemented using aprogrammable logic array (PLA) device. In a similar embodiment, ASIC 44is implemented using a field programmable gate array (FPGA) device. ASIC44 is tasked with controlling the image acquisition process, and thestorage of image data. As part of the image acquisition process, ASIC 44performs various timing and control functions including control of lightsource 24, control of color imager 34, and control of external interface56. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the pertinent artthat modifications and variations can be made to processor 40 of thepresent invention depending on the cost, availability, and performanceof off-the-shelf microprocessors, and the type of color imager used. Inone embodiment, microprocessor 42 and ASIC 44 are replaced by a singlemicroprocessor 40. In one embodiment, microprocessor 40 is implementedusing a single RISC processor. In yet another embodiment, microprocessor40 is implemented using a RISC and DSP hybrid processor.

It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the pertinent art thatmodifications and variations can be made to the memory configuration ofthe present invention depending on cost and flexibility considerations.For example, in one embodiment, EROM 48 is implemented using EPROMs orE2PROMs. In yet another embodiment, FLASH memory is employed. RAM 46typically includes at least one volatile memory device, and in someembodiments includes one or more long term non-volatile memory devices.

It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the pertinent art thatmodifications and variations can be made to I/O unit 50 of the presentinvention depending on the application and work environment. Embodimentsof I/O unit 50 include an RS-232 interface, a LAN interface, PANinterface, a serial bus such as USB, an internet interface, and awireless interface.

External interface 56 is used to transmit a discrete signal to control aperipheral device. Typically, the peripheral is an external illuminator.The external illuminator is used in place of light source 24.

It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the pertinent art thatmodifications and variations can be made to the operating systememployed by optical reader 10 depending on the applications and desiredoperating environment. In one embodiment, a WindowsCE operating systemis employed. In other embodiments, LINUX or PalmOS operating systems areemployed. As a non-limiting example, application programs can be writtenusing C, C++, Visual Basic, or Visual C++. Other languages can be usedas well, depending on the application program. In other embodiments,optical reader 10 does not employ an operating system. For example, thesimple reader depicted in FIG. 1D does not require a complex operatingsystem.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 3, an example of a graphicaluser interface in accordance with the present invention is disclosed.Display 60 provides a plurality of application program icons displayedon graphical user interface (GUI) 650. Selections are made by the uservia arrow 652. For example, GUI 650 allows a user to select theautomatic image capture mode by clicking on automatic mode icon 654. GUI650 also includes semi-automatic image capture icon 656, bar-codescanning icon 658, OCR/text capture icon 660, signature capture modeicon 662, color photography mode icon 664, association mode icon 668,and additional application program icons 666. The application programicon 666 may allow the user to collect other biometric information suchas finger and voice prints. In the WindowsCE environment, start buttonicon 670 and tool bars may also be displayed on GUI 650. GUI 650 alsodisplays current application program data 672.

In the automatic imaging mode, processor 40 is programmed to analyze thecolor imaging data to determine if an acquired image includes agraphical symbol or is merely a color photographic image. If it makesthe determination that the color image includes a graphical symbol, itfurther analyzes the acquired image and classifies it as a bar code, OCRsymbol, text, or a signature. Based on the classification, opticalreader 10 jumps to the appropriate routine in EROM 48. Thesemi-automatic mode is similar. Thus, in the automatic or semi-automaticmodes, the bar code scanning mode, the OCR/text mode, the signaturecapture mode, the color photography mode, and the association mode arecontrolled by the application program, not by the user.

However, the user may manually select any of the above listed modes. Ifthe user clicks on bar code scanning icon 658, the bar code scanningapplication program will run. In this application program, the user mayselect between a 1D bar code mode, 2D bar code mode or anautodiscrimination mode. Further, the user can manually select andde-select the types of bar codes optical reader 10 is enabled to read ornot read.

The user may also click on OCR/Text icon 660. Clicking icon 660 providesthe user with a check validation mode, a text scanning mode, or abi-tonal image capture mode. The check validation mode is performed inconjunction with network services.

Clicking on icon 662 provides the user with a signature capture mode. Inone embodiment, this mode includes a signature verification programwherein the user may select between a static verification or a dynamicverification. In the static mode, the user captures the image of asignature. The captured image is compared with a reference image storedin a remote database. In the dynamic mode, optical reader 10 uses thestylus and signature block to capture the signature. In this mode,signature block 62 measures unique dynamic parameters, such as appliedpressure, direction and timing of movements, or a combination of theseparameters. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that thislist is not meant to be all-inclusive, but rather, is a representativeexample. The captured dynamic parameters are compared with a referencedata stored in a remote database.

The user selects the color photography mode by clicking on icon 664.This mode allows the user to select an automatic imaging mode whereinoptical reader 10 makes the imaging adjustments (e.g., exposure, etc.)or a manual mode that allows the user to adjust imager settings as hepleases.

In another embodiment, display 60 provides the user with a menu listingthe main modes of optical reader 10. The user employs keypad 16 toselect the desired mode. A cursor key is employed to highlight any ofthe modes listed above. Upon pressing the enter key, processor 40 jumpsto the appropriate routine stored in EROM 48. As discussed above, a usermay select between an Automatic Imaging mode, a Semi-Automatic Imagingmode, a bar code scanning mode, an OCR/text mode, a signature capturemode, a color photography mode, or an association mode.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 4, a flow chart showing theprocessing flow for the automatic imaging mode in accordance withanother embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. After the userpulls the trigger in step 400, processor reads the selected mode. Inthis case the automatic mode has been selected by the user. Theprocessor initializes optical reader 10 hardware, defines image datamemory space, and initializes software mode settings. In step 408,optical reader 10 captures the image by obtaining color imaging data. Insome embodiments, processor 40 may display the acquired image on display60 during this step. In step 410, processor 40 determines if thecaptured image includes a graphical symbol. In one embodiment, processor40 uses only a portion of the color imaging data to make thisdetermination. Because there are more green pixels than either red orblue pixels in the Bayer-Pattern, processor 40 uses the green pixels tolook for high energy regions in the acquired image. High energy, e.g.black-white transitions is a good indicator for the presence of agraphical symbol, such as a bar code symbol. A black and white bi-tonalimage will consist of green pixels that are in one of two possible valueranges. One narrow range of values is representative of white portionsof the image, whereas the other narrow range of values is representativeof black portions of the image.

In another embodiment, step 410 is performed by considering all of thepixel values. However, the interpretation of the pixel's value isadjusted based on whether it is a red, green, or blue pixel. In anotherembodiment, processor 40 creates a gray-scale image to determine whetherthe image includes a graphical symbol.

If in step 410 processor 40 determines that there is no graphical symbolpresent in the image, the user is asked in step 432 if he desires tostore the image. If so, the color photographic image is stored in memoryin step 434. If processor 40 determines that the image includes agraphical symbol, the process flow moves on to step 418. In this step,processor 40 strikes scanning lines to locate bar code symbolidentifiers. If processor 40 determines that the graphical symbol is abar code symbol it attempts to decode the symbol in step 436. If thedecoding is successful, the symbol may be a menu symbol or a datasymbol. If it is a data symbol, the decoded value of the bar code symbolis output to the display. If it is a menu symbol, a menuing routine isexecuted. The menu symbol is discussed in more detail below.

If processor 40 does not locate a bar code symbol it moves onto step 420and looks for OCR-A or OCR-B characters. If it finds these characters itperforms optical character recognition in step 422. If it does not,processor evaluates the image for the presence of text. If text islocated, the image is cropped, and the text is compressed and stored insteps 428 and 430. If the image does not include text, processor 40evaluates the image for the presence of a signature. If one is present,the image is cropped, and the data is compressed and stored in steps 428and 430. In another embodiment, optical reader 10 is networked, andprocessor 40 communicates with remote network resources to providesignature verification services. If processor 40 cannot detect a barcode symbol, OCR symbols, text, or a signature, the user is asked instep 432 if he desires to store the image. If he does, the colorphotographic image is stored in memory in step 434.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 5, a flow chart showing theprocessing flow for the semi-automatic mode is disclosed. After the userpulls the trigger in step 500, processor reads the selected mode,initializes optical reader 10 hardware, defines image data memory space,and initializes software mode settings. In step 508, optical reader 10captures and displays the image.

In step 510, processor 40 determines if the captured image includes agraphical symbol. Step 510 in the semi-automatic mode is identical tostep 410 in the automatic mode. If processor 40 determines that thecaptured image does not include a graphical symbol, processor 40 asksthe user if she wants to store the color image. If so, the color imageis stored in step 514. In step 516, a prompt asks the user if he desiresto associate the color image with another image. This step is notperformed in the automatic mode. In step 518, if the user answers in theaffirmative, the association is made and the processing flow returns tostep 508.

In steps 520, 522, 526, and 532, the user is given the opportunity toselect the type of graphical imaging that is to be performed. The methodfor performing OCR, text capture, and signature capture and/orverification are discussed above in the automatic mode description withone difference. In the semi-automatic mode, the user is asked in step538 if he desires to associate the processed image with a subsequentcaptured image. If so, process flow is directed back to step 508 andanother image is captured and displayed. The association feature can beused several times to associate multiple images.

If the user indicates that it is a bar code, an attempt is made todecode the symbol in step 540. Referring back to step 540, if thedecoding attempt is successful, processor 40 determines in step 544 ifthe symbol is a menu symbol. If it is not a menu symbol, processor 40displays the decoded bar code information on display 60. If it is a menusymbol, processor 40 executes the appropriate menu routine in step 546.In steps 552 to 564, processor 40 may continue to capture images if thetrigger is continuously pulled. In step 562, the user is asked if hedesires to associate the decoded bar-code with another image. If so, theprogram flow is directed back to step 508 and another image is capturedand displayed. Processor 40 links this image to the decoded bar codeinformation.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 6A-6C, graphical depictions ofthe menu symbol used in the bar code processing flows depicted in FIG. 4and FIG. 5 are disclosed. A decoded menu symbol includes menu word 600which has the format depicted in FIG. 6A. Menu word 600 includes a onebyte product ID code 600-1, that identifies the type and model of theoptical reader. Field 600-2 of word 600 specifies the op-code. Theop-codes are depicted in FIG. 6C. Op-code 0 refers to vector processingoperations that are listed as A1-A4 in FIG. 6C. Vector processing allowsthe user to download, enabled codes, the parameter table, or currentsoftware to an external device. Op-codes 1-7 allow a user to modify aspecific portion of the parameter table. These op-codes are used inconjunction with the offset field 600-3 and data fields 600-4 to 600-7.Offset field 600-3 is an index relative to the base address of theparameter table in memory that specifies the exact location in theparameter table. The data fields 600-4 to 600-7 are used to specify abit mask that indicates which bits are to be modified. FIG. 6B depicts asecond important group of options. For example, reader operating modesare included in F1-F6. These options are identical to the iconsdisplayed on GUI 650 in FIG. 3. Offset field 600-3 accommodates otheroptical reader 10 options as shown.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 7, a flow chart showing a methodfor reading a bar code in accordance with yet another embodiment of thepresent invention is disclosed. In step 700, processor 40 refers to aparameter table stored in EROM 48. Specifically, processor 40 determinesif the parameter table is programmed to perform 1D decoding. If theparameter table has enabled 1D processing, 1D autodiscrimination isperformed. The parameter table specifies the values of the parametersthat define the operational mode of the reader. Examples of theseparameters include the size and frame rate of the color imager, codesthat are enabled during bar code decoding, I/O communications protocols,OCR options, and others. If 1D decoding is successful, the decoded datais stored or displayed, in accordance with the parameter table settings.If 1D codes are disabled or if 1D decoding is unsuccessful, processormoves on to step 708. In this step, processor 40 determines if any 2Dcodes are enabled. If the parameter table has all of the 2D codesdisabled, processor 40 exits the bar code decoding routine. If 2D codesare enabled, 2D autodiscrimination is performed in step 710. If decodingis successful, the decoded data is either stored or output, depending onthe parameters stored in the parameter table. If decoding isunsuccessful, processor exits the routine.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 8, a flow chart showing a methodfor performing the 1D autodiscrimination of step 702 in FIG. 7 isdisclosed. In step 800, processor 40 calculates the activities ofselected image data elements. The activity is defined as a measure ofthe rate of change of the image data over a small two-dimensionalportion of the region surrounding the selected data element. In oneembodiment, the activity is calculated along any two arbitrarilyselected directions which are orthogonal one to the other. Two mutuallyperpendicular directions are used because the orientation of the symbolis unknown. In step 802, processor 40 looks for “high activity” regions.These high activity regions are referred to as candidate symbol regions(CSRs). A high activity region indicates a transition from a blackregion to a white region, or vice-versa. If there is more than one CSR,it may indicate the presence of more than one bar code symbol. In step804, processor 40 selects the largest CSR. In step 806, processor 40calculates the centroid of the largest CSR. Subsequently, processor 40finds the direction of the highest activity in the largest CSR. In a 1Dbar code, this will be the direction perpendicular to the direction ofthe bars. In steps 810 and 812, processor defines the initial scan line(SC=0), as being the scan line bisecting the centroid of the bar code.Processor calculates the brightness values of sampling points along theinitial scan line. These brightness values are converted to digital datain step 816. In decoding step 818, processor 40 applies one 1D decodingprogram after another. If decoding is unsuccessful, processor 40 checksif the entire CSR has been scanned. If not, it establishes a new scanline, and repeats the decoding process. If in step 822, the entire CSRhas been scanned, and there are no CSRs remaining to be decoded,processor 40 exits the routine. If in step 820, 1D decoding issuccessful, processor 40 determines if the symbol is a 1D stackedsymbol. If it is a 1D stacked symbol, processor 40 scans and decodes theremaining CSRs in the stacked symbol. If it is not a stacked symbol, thedecoded 1D data is stored or output to display 60 in step 830. In step838, processor 40 determines if there any unexamined regions. If thereare unexamined regions, the decoding process is repeated. Otherwise,processor 40 exits the routine.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 9, a flow chart showing a methodfor 2D autodiscrimination is disclosed. In step 900, processor 40converts the image data into a two-state binarized format. In step 902,processor 40 locates all 2D finder patterns and identifies them by type.Pattern types include bulls-eye type patterns, waistband type patternsperipheral patterns, and others. If the number of finder patterns equalszero, processor 40 exits the routine. If there are finder patterns,processor 40 locates the finder pattern closest to the center of thefield of view in one embodiment of the invention. Theclosest-to-the-center option has an advantage in that a centrallylocated image is likely to be a symbol. In step 908, processor 40attempts to decode the symbol in accordance with the finder type. Forexample, the Aztec 2D matrix symbol employs a bulls-eye finder pattern.The DataMatrix symbology employs a peripheral finder pattern. If thedecoding is successful, the decoded data is either stored or displayed.In step 914, processor 40 determines if there are any other unusedfinder patterns. If so, the symbols corresponding to those unusedpatterns are decoded, and the previously described steps are repeated.Otherwise, processor 40 exits the routine.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 10, a flow chart showing amethod for reading text in accordance with yet another embodiment of thepresent invention is disclosed. This routine can be accessed in a numberof ways as described above. In step 1000, a bit-map image of the page isproduced. In step 1002, the bit mapped image is sampled. In oneembodiment, this is performed by analyzing every Nth scan line of thebit mapped image. The value of integer N is dependent on the resolutionof the scanned image. In one embodiment the image is sampled every1/40th of an inch. This provides sufficient resolution to locate andclassify the various regions on the page. By sampling every 1/40th of aninch instead of every scan line, the processing and memory requirementsof reader 10 are substantially reduced. In step 1004, processor 40identifies the page features. Processor 40 analyzes the page and dividesit into blank and non-blank portions. The non-blank portions areanalyzed to distinguish text regions from non-text regions. Afterdetermining the layout of the page, processor 40 uses black-to-whitetransitions to determine degrees of skew. In step 1008, horizontal whitespaces are identified to separate lines of text. In step 1010, verticalwhite spaces are identified within each line of text to thereby separateindividual words and characters from each other. In step 1014, acharacter recognition algorithm is used in an attempt to recognize eachindividual character. Finally, in step 1016, processor 40 formats therecovered text before storing the text in memory.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 11, a flow chart showing amethod for performing OCR in accordance with yet another embodiment ofthe present invention is disclosed. In step 1100, reader 10 produces abit-mapped image of the page. Subsequently, processor 40 finds lines oftext in the image, locates the white spaces in each line, and isolatesthe characters. In step 1108, processor 40 performs characterrecognition, either OCR-A or OCR-B, as desired. The decoded charactersare stored in memory.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 12, a flow chart showing amethod for associating consecutive images taken with the color opticalreader of the present invention is disclosed. This method corresponds toicon 668 displayed on GUI 650 in FIG. 3. If icon 668 is not clicked on,processor 40 assumes that reader 10 is not operating in associationmode. Thus, processor 40 will process a single image. If reader 10 is inassociation mode processor 40 initializes counter CNTR. In step 1206processor 40 processes the first captured image. In step 1208, if CNTRis less than or equal to two, processor 40 processes image N, and linksimage N to the first image. In step 1216, CNTR is incremented by one. IfCNTR is greater than two (step 1208), meaning that at least two imageshave already been linked, processor 40 asks the user if she desires tolink another image. If so, the processing flow returns to step 1212. Ifnot, processor 40 exits the routine.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 13, an example of imageassociation in accordance with the present invention is disclosed. Oneor ordinary skill in the art will recognize that associated images 1300can be disposed on paper, displayed electronically on display 60, ordisplayed electronically using other electronic means, such as acomputer monitor. In this example, the first image captured is colorphotograph 1302 which shows a damaged parcel. The second image capturedis bar code 1304 affixed to the side of the damaged parcel. Processor 40decodes bar code 1304 and associates decoded bar code data 1306 withcolor photograph 1302. In this example, the user elected to associate athird image, signature 1308. Thus, personnel viewing record 1300 mayreasonably conclude that a damaged parcel was delivered to Company XYZ,and that the person signing for the parcel delivery was someone namedJohn W. Smith.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 14, a perspective view of awireless color optical reader network 1400 in accordance with anotherembodiment of the present invention is disclosed. Network 1400 includesN-cordless optical scanners 10 coupled to base terminal 202 by means ofradio link 18. Base terminal 202 is connected to host computer 206 bycommunications link 204. Cordless optical reader 10 is of the typedescribed above. It includes antenna 102, keypads 14 and 16, and display60. A radio controller is included in both the optical scanner 10 andthe base terminal 202. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe pertinent art that radio controller may be of any suitable type, butby way of example, radio controller 30 provides frequency hopping spreadspectrum communications (FHSS) between scanner 10 and base terminal 202.FHSS is a form of spread spectrum radio transmission that produces anarrow band signal that hops among a plurality of frequencies in aprearranged pattern. FHSS is often used in commercial environmentsbecause of its ability to minimize errors due to interference orjamming. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize thatoptical scanner 10 and base terminal 202 may communicate using otherwireless schemes and other modulation formats based on user requirementsand environmental factors. Base terminal 202 includes antenna 208, whichis used to transmit and receive messages from optical scanner 10.Antenna 208 is connected to a radio controller disposed inside terminal202. Base terminal 202 also includes an I/O card, a base terminalprocessor, and a base terminal memory. The I/O card in base terminal 202is coupled to the radio controller and communications link 204.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 15, a flow chart showing amethod for transmitting packetized data from a color optical reader to abase station is disclosed. In steps 1500 and 1502, optical reader 10captures an image and processes the image as described above. In step1504, the processed image, whether it be a color image, decoded barcodes, a text file, or signature verification information, is assembledinto packets. In steps 1506 and 1508, a loop is created wherein packetsare sent to the base terminal one-by-one until all packets are sent.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B, diagrammaticdepictions of packet formats in accordance with the present inventionare disclosed. In one embodiment of the present invention, each packetcan accommodate approximately 200 bytes of decoded data in a 256 bytepacket. This is merely a representative example, and one of ordinaryskill in the art will recognize that the scope of the present inventionshould not be limited to data packets of a certain size or format. FIG.16A shows data packet 1600 which is used to transmit decoded data froman optical reader to a base terminal when only one data packet isrequired. Packet 1600 includes an optical reader address field, sequencenumber field, a packet length field, an image type field, image data,and an error check field. The optical reader address identifies aparticular optical reader. Each packet includes a sequence numberdisposed in the second field. The next field contains the length of theimage data field. After this, the packet contains a field identifyingthe type of image that was processed. After the image type, the imagedata payload of the packet is inserted. Finally, packet 200 includes anerror checking field.

FIG. 16B shows header packet 1602 and data packet 1604 used to transmitdecoded data from an optical scanner to a base terminal when more thanone data packet is required. When more than one packet is required,reader 10 first transmits header packet 1602. After base terminal 202acknowledges that it can process the remaining packets, reader 10transmits remaining packets 1604. If base terminal 202 cannot processthe remaining packets 1604, or if there is another problem, baseterminal 202 will transmit an application packet to scanner 10indicating the error. The definitions of the scanner address field, thesequence number field, symbol type, length, symbol data, and error checkfield were described above, and hence, will not be repeated. Headerpacket 1602 also includes a header identification field, whichidentifies the packet as a header packet. In the next field, packet 1602includes a total length field, which includes the total length of thedata contained in the decoded symbol. The next field includes the totalnumber of packets in the message. The second-to-last field is the packetnumber. In the header packet, this number is designated as packet number“one.” The remaining packets 1604 also include a packet number field,which are incremented from 2 to N, depending on the total number ofpackets being transmitted in the message.

Packet 1600, packet 1602, and packet 1604 as described above may be ofany suitable type, and are representative examples representing oneembodiment of the present invention. One of ordinary skill in the artwill recognize that the packets may be implemented in a variety of ways.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 17, a flow chart showing amethod for performing signature verification is disclosed. In step 1700,optical reader 10 captures the image of the document to thereby generatea bit-map of the image. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognizethat in the automatic mode or semi-automatic mode, processor 40determines that the image object is a graphical symbol in a subsequentstep. Step 1202 is similar to steps 1002 and 1004 of FIG. 10. The imageis sampled by analyzing every Nth scan line of the bit mapped image. Asdiscussed above, the image must be scanned in such a way so as toprovide sufficient resolution to locate and classify the various regionson the document. In the case of a check, the location of the variousfields on the instrument are relatively standard. Check sizes may differsomewhat, but the check number, bank code, account number, date,signature block, and etc. are in the same relative locations from checkto check. In step 1704, document data such as the name, check number,bank code, account number, and date, are extracted from the documentusing any OCR program and stored in memory. In step 1706, the image ofthe hand writing in the signature block is captured.

Steps 1708 and 1710 are performed using the wireless system 1400described above. In other embodiments these steps are performed by awireline system. For example, in one embodiment, optical reader 10 iscoupled to a host computer via an RS-232 or USB link. In anotherembodiment, optical reader 10 is connected to a host computer via a LAN.One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the presentinvention should not be construed as being limited by these examples.

In steps 1712 and 1714, processor 40 initializes a counter and beginswaiting for a reply from the host computer. In steps 1714-1718, if thereply is not received within time limit TL, the counter CNTR isincremented and the message is re-transmitted. After several attempts,if CNTR>N (N being an integer), processor 40 outputs a fault message. Ifthe reply message is received within time limit TL, processor interpretsthe reply in step 1722. If the extracted data and the signature matchinformation stored in the database accessible by the host computer, anapproval message is displayed. If the extracted data and the signaturedo not match information stored in the database accessible by the hostcomputer, a disapproval message is displayed. The dynamic signatureverification embodiment is similar to the static embodiment describedimmediately above. In the dynamic version, the user provides hissignature using stylus 18 and signature block 62, as shown in FIG. 1C.Signature block 62 provides processor 40 with the dynamic parametersrecorded during signature. The dynamic parameters are transmitted to ahost processor, as described above.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIG. 18, an example of a coloroptical reader network 1800 in accordance with the present invention isdisclosed. Network 1800 includes wireless system 1400, personal computer1802, optical reader 10, LAN 1820, network servicing center 1830, andpersonal area network (PAN) coupled together via network 1810.

One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that network 1810 may beof any suitable type depending on the application, but there is shown byway of example the Internet. However, the present invention should notbe construed as being limited to this example. In another embodiment,network 1810 is a private network. Those of ordinary skill in the artwill also recognize that network 1810 is a wireline network in oneembodiment, and a wireless network in another embodiment. Network 1810may include circuit switched networks, IP networks, or both.

LAN 1820 includes server 1822, computer 1824, database 1826, and aplurality of optical readers 10. Database 1826 is used to storeassociated images along with other data fields. For example, it would berather useful to store additional information with the associated imagesshown in FIG. 13. One may want to associate the delivery means, route,driver, and other related information for subsequent analysis. Network1810 allows reader 10, PAN 1850, and wireless system 1400 a way to storesuch data in database 1826. System analysts can access this informationvia personal computer 1802 connected to network 1810. In one embodiment,LAN 1820 includes an Internet website. In this embodiment, users areauthenticated before gaining access to database 1826.

Network servicing center 1830 is coupled to network 1810 via interface1844. Center 1830 also includes server 1832, computer 1834, database1836, signature verification module 1838, authentication module 1840,coupled together via a LAN. Center 1830 accommodates any number ofuseful applications programs 1842.

PAN 1850 includes at least one color optical reader 10 coupled topoint-of-sale (POS) terminal 1854. POS terminal 1854 is coupled tonetwork 1810 via interface 182. POS terminal 1854 includes a credit cardreader and a signature capture block. In the scenario depicted in FIG.18, a merchant user of POS terminal 1854 transmits an associatedcustomer credit card number, signature, and in one embodiment, a colorimage of the customer, to Center 1830. Authentication module 1840 isused to authenticate the credit card and signature verification moduleis used to authenticate the signature. In another embodiment, database1836 is used to store the customer's image, credit card number, andsignature for verification purposes.

The present invention relates to an optical reader that includes a colorimaging assembly that generates color imaging data. An image analysiscircuit determines if the acquired image should be characterized as acolor photograph or as including a graphical symbol. A processingcircuit processes the imaging data based on the image analysis circuitsdetermination of whether the image is a graphical symbol or a colorphotograph. The present invention allows a user to acquire and processboth color images and graphical symbols, such as bar codes, text, OCRsymbols or signatures. The optical reader of the present invention isalso configured to associate an acquired image with at least one otheracquired image.

A small sampling of the systems, methods, and apparatus that aredescribed and defined herein is as follows:

A1. An optical reader comprising: a color imaging assembly for acquiringan image of an object, the color imaging assembly generating colorimaging data corresponding to the image; an image analysis circuitcoupled to the color imaging assembly, the image analysis circuit beingconfigured to determine if the color imaging data includes at least onegraphical symbol, whereby the image is classified as a graphical symbolimage if the color imaging data includes at least one graphical symbol,or the image is classified as a color photograph if the color imagingdata does not include at least one graphical symbol; and a processingcircuit coupled to the image analysis circuit, the processing circuitbeing operative to process the color imaging data based on theclassification of the image. A2. The optical reader of claim 1, whereinthe processing circuit decodes a 1D 2 bar code symbol based on theclassification. A3. The optical reader of claim 1, wherein theprocessing circuit decodes a 2D 2 bar code symbol based on theclassification. A4. The optical reader of claim 1, wherein theprocessing circuit performs optical character recognition based on theclassification. A5. The optical reader of claim 1, wherein theprocessing circuit performs a signature capture based on theclassification. A6. The optical reader of claim 1, wherein theprocessing circuit stores a color image based on the classification. A7.The optical reader of claim 1, wherein the portion of the color imagingdata is processed by evaluating only green pixel values in the colorimaging data. A8. The optical reader of claim 1, wherein theclassification circuit aggregates values of a red, blue and greentriplet to form a super-pixel in the process of selecting one of aplurality of classifications. A9. The optical reader of claim 1, whereinthe color imaging data is converted into a gray scale image in theprocess of selecting one of a plurality of classifications. A10. Theoptical reader of claim 1, further comprising an illumination lightsource including white LEDs. A11. The optical reader of claim 1, furthercomprising an illumination light source including red LEDs.

B1. An optical reader for capturing an image of an object, the opticalreader comprising: a color imaging assembly for converting the image ofthe object into color digital data corresponding to the image; anautomatic mode selection circuit coupled to the color imaging assembly,the mode selection circuit using at least a portion of the color digitaldata to select one of a plurality of operational modes of the opticalreader, the operational modes including at least graphical symbol modeand a color photography mode; and a processing circuit coupled to themode selection circuit, the processing circuit being configured toprocess the color digital data based on the selected operational mode.B2. The optical reader of claim B1, wherein the at least one graphicalsymbol mode includes decoding a 1D bar code. B3. The optical reader ofclaim B1, wherein the at least one graphical symbol mode includesdecoding a 2D bar code. B4. The optical reader of claim B1, wherein theat least one graphical symbol mode includes optical characterrecognition. B5. The optical reader of claim B1, wherein the at leastone graphical symbol mode includes capturing a signature. B6. Theoptical reader of claim B1, wherein the color photography mode includesstoring a color photographic image in a computer-readable medium. B7.The optical reader of claim B1, further comprising an illumination lightsource including white LEDs. B8. The optical reader of claim B1, furthercomprising an illumination light source including red LEDs.

C1. An optical reader for capturing an image of an object, the opticalreader comprising: a color imaging assembly for capturing the image ascolor imaging data; a classification circuit coupled to the colorimaging assembly, the classification circuit being configured to processat least a portion of the color imaging data to thereby select one of aplurality of classifications, whereby the image is classified as a colorphotographic image, or as an image that includes at least one graphicalsymbol; an automatic mode selector coupled to the classificationcircuit, the automatic mode selector being configured to select anoptical reader mode in accordance with the selected classification; anda processor coupled to the classification circuit, the processor beingprogrammed to process the color imaging data in accordance with theoptical reader mode selected by the automatic mode selector. C2. Theoptical reader of claim C1, wherein the portion of the color imagingdata is processed by evaluating only green pixel values in the colorimaging data. C3. The optical reader of claim 20, wherein theclassification circuit aggregates values of a red, blue and greentriplet to form a super-pixel in the process of selecting one of aplurality of classifications. C4. The optical reader of claim C1,wherein the color imaging data is converted into a gray scale image inthe process of selecting one of a plurality of classifications. C5. Theoptical reader of claim C1, wherein the processor decodes a ID bar codesymbol. C6. The optical reader of claim C1, wherein the processordecodes a 2D bar code symbol. C7. The optical reader of claim C1,wherein the processor performs an optical character recognition process.C8. The optical reader of claim C1, wherein the processor performs asignature capture process. C9. The optical reader of claim C1, whereinthe processor stores a color image in a computer-readable medium.

D1. An optical reader for capturing an image of an object, the opticalreader comprising: a color imaging assembly for capturing the image ascolor imaging data; a user mode selector coupled to the color imagingassembly, the user mode selector being switchable between at least oneautomatic user mode, or a manual user mode for manually selecting one ofa plurality of imaging modes of the optical reader, whereby theplurality of imaging modes includes at least one graphical symbol modeand a color photography mode; an automatic imaging mode selector coupledto the user mode selector and the color imaging assembly, the automaticimaging mode selector being operative to automatically select one of theplurality of imaging modes when in the automatic user mode; and aprocessing circuit coupled to the user mode selector and the automaticmode selector, the processing circuit being programmed to process thecolor imaging data based on the selected one of the plurality ofoperational modes. D2. The optical reader of claim D1, wherein theplurality of imaging modes includes a 1D bar code decoding mode. D3. Theoptical reader of claim D1, wherein the plurality of imaging modesincludes a 2D bar code decoding mode. D4. The optical reader of claimD1, wherein the plurality of imaging modes includes an optical characterrecognition mode. D5. The optical reader of claim D1, wherein theplurality of imaging modes includes a signature capture mode. D6. Theoptical reader of claim D1, wherein the plurality of imaging modesincludes a color photography mode.

E1. A method for acquiring an image of an object with an optical reader,the method comprising: acquiring first color imaging data representingthe image; analyzing the color imaging data to provide an imageclassification, whereby the image is classified as a color photograph,or as including at least one graphical symbol; and processing the colorimaging data in accordance with the image classification. E2. The methodof claim E1, wherein the step of processing includes decoding a 1Dbarcode. E3. The method of claim E1, wherein the step of processingincludes decoding a 2D barcode. E4. The method of claim E1, wherein thestep of processing includes an optical character recognition process.E5. The method of claim E1, wherein the step of processing includescapturing a signature. E6. The method of claim E1, wherein the step ofprocessing includes storing a color photographic image in acomputer-readable medium. E7. The method of claim E1, wherein the stepof analyzing includes an analysis of only one color of the color imagingdata during the step of providing an image classification. E8. Themethod of claim E1, further comprising: acquiring at least one secondcolor imaging data representing at least one second image; analyzing theat least one second color imaging data to provide at least one secondimage classification, whereby the at least one second image isclassified as a color photograph, or as an image including at least onegraphical symbol; processing the at least one second color imaging datain accordance with the at least one second image classification; andassociating the at least one second color imaging data with the firstcolor imaging data. E9. The method of claim E1, wherein the step ofassociating includes displaying the at least one second color imagingdata with the first color imaging data. E10. The method of claim E9,wherein the step of associating includes electronically displaying theat least one second color imaging data with the first color imagingdata. E11. The method of claim E1 wherein the step of associatingincludes printing the at least one second color imaging data with thefirst color imaging data. E12. The method of claim E1, wherein the stepof associating includes linking the at least one second color imagingdata with the first color imaging data in memory. E13. The method ofclaim E1, wherein the step of associating includes storing the at leastone second color imaging data with the first color imaging data as arecord in a database.

F1. A computer readable medium having computer-executable instructionsfor performing a method comprising: acquiring color imaging data;analyzing the color imaging data to provide an image classification,whereby the image is classified as a color photograph, or the image isclassified as including at least one graphical symbol; and processingthe color imaging data in accordance with the image classification.

G1. In an optical reader having a color imaging assembly for acquiringcolor imaging data, and a graphical user interface including a displayand a selection device, a method for selecting at least one opticalreader operating mode, the method comprising: displaying at least oneicon on the graphical user interface, the at least one iconcorresponding to the at least one optical reader operating mode;clicking on the at least one icon with the selection device to therebyselect the at least one optical reader operating mode corresponding tothe selected at least one icon; and processing the color imaging databased on the selected at least one icon, whereby the color imaging datais processed as a color photographic image, or as an image that includesat least one graphical symbol.

H1. In an optical reader having a color imaging assembly for acquiringcolor imaging data, and a graphical user interface including a displayand a selection device, a method of providing and selecting from a menuon the display, the method comprising: retrieving a set of menu entriesfor the menu, each of the menu entries representing at least oneoperational mode of the optical reader; displaying the set of menuentries on the display; selecting a menu entry; emitting a menuselection signal indicative of a selected operational mode; andprocessing the imaging data based on the selected menu entry, wherebythe, imaging data is processed as a color photographic image or as animage that includes at least one graphical symbol.

I1. A method for acquiring an image of an object with an optical reader,the method comprising: providing a color imaging assembly; convertingthe image into color imaging data; classifying the image as either acolor photograph, or as a color image that includes at least onegraphical symbol; and processing the color imaging data in accordancewith the step of classifying.

J1. A method for acquiring an image of an object with an optical reader,the optical reader having a plurality of imaging modes including atleast one graphical symbol mode, and a color photography mode, themethod comprising: capturing the image by acquiring color imaging data;analyzing at least a portion of the color imaging data to provide animage classification, whereby the image classification includes at leastone graphical symbol classification and a color photographyclassification; automatically selecting one of a plurality of imageprocessing modes based on the image classification provided in the stepof analyzing; and processing the color imaging data based on theselected one of the plurality of image processing modes.

K1. A method for acquiring an image of an object with an optical reader,the optical reader having a plurality of imaging modes including atleast one graphical symbol mode, and a color photography mode, themethod comprising: capturing the image by acquiring color imaging data;automatically selecting one of the plurality of imaging modes based onan analysis of the color imaging data; and processing the color imagingdata in accordance with a selected one of the plurality of imagingmodes.

L1. A system for processing at least one image, the system including atleast one network element, the system comprising: an optical readerincluding a color imager and a processor, the color imager beingconfigured to capture the at least one image by generating color imagingdata corresponding to the at least one image, the processor beingconfigured to provide a classification of the color imaging data basedon whether the color imaging data includes at least one graphicalsymbol, the processor being programmed to process the color imaging datain accordance with the classification; and a network coupled to thecolor optical reader and the at least one network element, wherebyprocessed image data is transmitted between the network and the at leastone network element. L2. The system of claim L1, wherein the networkincludes the Internet. L3. The system of claim L1, wherein the networkincludes a wireless network. L4. The system of claim L1, wherein thenetwork includes a circuit switched network. L5. The system of claim L1,wherein the network includes an IP network. L6. The system of claim L1,wherein the network includes a private network. L7. The system of claimL1, wherein the network element includes a LAN. L8. The system of claimL7, wherein the LAN further comprises: a server coupled to the network;and at least one optical reader coupled to the server. L9. The system ofclaim L7, wherein the at least one optical reader includes a colorimager. L10. The system of claim L7, wherein the LAN includes adatabase, the database being configured to store a plurality ofassociated processed images. L11. The system of claim L8, wherein theplurality of associated processed images includes a color photographicimage associated with decoded bar code data. L12. The system of claimL8, wherein the plurality of associated processed images includes acolor photographic image associated with decoded OCR data. L13. Thesystem of claim L8, wherein the plurality of associated processed imagesincludes a color photographic image associated with decoded text data.L14. The system of claim L8, wherein the plurality of associatedprocessed images includes a color photographic image associated with acaptured signature. L15. The system of claim L8, wherein the pluralityof associated processed images includes decoded bar code data. L16. Thesystem of claim L8, wherein the plurality of associated processed imagesincludes decoded OCR data. L17. The system of claim L8, wherein theplurality of associated processed images includes decoded text data.L18. The system of claim L8, wherein the plurality of associatedprocessed images includes a captured signature. L19. The system of claimL7, wherein the LAN includes a POS terminal. L20. The system of claimL7, wherein the LAN includes a credit card authentication module. L21.The system of claim L7, wherein the LAN includes a signatureverification module. L22. The system of claim L1, wherein the networkelement includes a PAN, the Pan having at least one optical readercoupled thereto. L23. The system of claim L22, wherein the at least oneoptical reader includes a color imager. L24. The system of claim L22,wherein the PAN includes a POS terminal. L25. The system of claim L1,wherein the network element further comprises: a wireless base stationcoupled to the network, the wireless base station being configured totransmit and receive processed image data to and from the network; andat least one wireless optical reader coupled to the wireless basestation via an RF communications link. L26. The system of claim L25,wherein the at least one wireless optical reader includes a colorimager. L27. The system of claim L1, wherein the processor furthercomprises an image analysis circuit coupled to the color imager, theimage analysis circuit being configured to determine if the colorimaging data includes at least one graphical symbol, whereby the imageis classified as a graphical symbol image if the color imaging dataincludes at least one graphical symbol, or the image is classified as acolor photograph if the color imaging data does not include at least onegraphical symbol. L28. The system of claim L1, wherein the processorfurther comprises an automatic mode selection circuit coupled to thecolor imager, the automatic mode selection circuit using at least aportion of the color imaging data to select one of a plurality ofoperational modes of the optical reader, the operational modes includingat least graphical symbol mode and a color photography mode. L29. Thesystem of claim L1, wherein the processor further comprises: aclassification circuit coupled to the color imager, the classificationcircuit being configured to process at least a portion of the colorimaging data to thereby select one of a plurality of classifications,whereby the image is classified as a color photographic image, or as animage that includes at least one graphical symbol; an automatic modeselector coupled to the classification circuit, the automatic modeselector being configured to select an optical reader mode in accordancewith the selected one of a plurality of classifications. L30. The systemof claim L1, wherein the optical reader further comprises: a user modeselector coupled to the color imager, the user mode selector beingswitchable between at least one automatic user mode, or a manual usermode for manually selecting one of a plurality of imaging modes of theoptical reader, whereby the plurality of imaging modes includes at leastone graphical symbol mode and a color photography mode; an automaticimaging mode selector coupled to the user mode selector and the colorimager, the automatic imaging mode selector being operative toautomatically select one of the plurality of imaging modes when in theautomatic user mode.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and variations can be made to the present inventionwithout departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, itis intended that the present invention cover the modifications andvariations of this invention provided they come within the scope of theappended claims and their equivalents.

We claim:
 1. A method comprising: acquiring using a hand held apparatushaving a display a processor and a color imaging assembly first colorimaging data representing an article having affixed thereto a bar code;acquiring using the hand held apparatus second color imaging datarepresenting an article having affixed thereto a barcode; processing thefirst color imaging data to determine decoded data of the barcode;transmitting the second color imaging data representing said articlefrom the hand held apparatus to an external element external to saidhand held apparatus and in communication with the hand held apparatus;and associating the decoded data to the imaging data representing saidarticle.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of processingincludes decoding a 1D barcode.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein thestep of processing includes decoding a 2D barcode.
 4. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the processing the first color imaging data todetermine decoded data of the barcode is performed by the processor ofthe hand held apparatus.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein theassociating is performed by the processor of the hand held apparatus. 6.The method of claim 1, wherein the associating includes displaying thedecoded data with the second color imaging data.
 7. The method of claim1, wherein the associating includes electronically displaying thedecoded data with the second color imaging data.
 8. The method of claim1, wherein the associating includes electronically displaying on thedisplay the decoded data with the second color imaging data.
 9. Themethod of claim 1, wherein associating includes linking the decoded datawith the second color imaging data in memory.
 10. The method of claim 1,wherein the associating includes storing the decoded data with thesecond color imaging data as a record in a database.
 11. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the associating includes storing the decoded data withthe second color imaging data as a record in a database external to thehand held apparatus.